Why do we need artificial intelligence?
The question, "Why do we need artificial intelligence?" is quite to the point.  Technically, the answer is, "No reason."  If we needed artificial intelligence, then we would have become extinct over the last 50,000 or more years we've been a species with human intelligence, so we want it.

We do want it, and there are benefits.  Some claim there are risks too, which is logical.  We should be open to all views.  Some of them may be spot on, and others may be without merit.

One list of benefits already seen might include these, with most beneficial on top.


Deeper interest in what exactly we mean when we say someone or some thing is intelligent
Revisiting of the validity of the g-factor belief
Revised interest in parallel computing architecture
Heightened awareness of the distinction between fake and authentic
Improved use of an interest in probability and statistics


These are further potential benefits that may also emerge.


Young students taking mathematics more seriously than hacking
The elimination of circular, wasteful job functions
More leisure time for families to enjoy together
Improved economic efficiency
Better planning regarding the use and preservation of natural resources


These are the risks from highest to lowest.


Possibly accidentally causing the emergence of an uncontained and potentially dangerous digital entity
Additional nihilism (belief that nothing matters) in our culture, which could emerge if the last refuge of human pride is overrun by smarter artificial systems
People losing their jobs, which may have only a temporary impact, if the AI does quality work, but the transition may be painful and destructive